Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide and remains a significant global health challenge. Early-stage breast cancer, which has not spread beyond the breast or nearby lymph nodes, is curable in approximately 70 to 80 percent of cases. However, metastatic breast cancer, characterized by distant organ metastasis, remains largely incurable despite advances in treatment. The disease is heterogeneous, influenced by genetic factors such as BRCA mutations, and by the expression of hormone receptors—estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR)—as well as human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). These molecular markers not only influence prognosis but also guide tailored treatment strategies. Breast cancer management is multidisciplinary, combining systemic therapies like chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted anti-HER2 treatments, and novel agents including poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors for BRCA mutation carriers and immunotherapy. Locoregional treatments such as surgery and radiation complement systemic approaches. Emerging therapeutic strategies focus on treatment personalization based on tumor biology, early response to therapy, and genomic profiling to either escalate or de-escalate treatment intensity. Despite these advances, ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge treatments across different socioeconomic groups remains a critical challenge for future breast cancer care. Continued research and improved healthcare delivery systems are essential to improve outcomes and survival for all breast cancer patients.
Ali Kareem Prof. Hassan (Tue,) studied this question.
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